Obituary of George Villegas

Free to Soar with Eagles,

George Albert Villegas has answered God’s call home.

Surrounded by loved ones, George passed away on Tuesday, January 9th, 2018, at the age of 62, in Hollister, Ca. George was born and raised in Hollister where he lived most of his life. At San Benito High School, George excelled in Track and began growing his endless list of the many people he called friends. Graduating in 1973, George still kept in touch with many of his classmate buddies, meeting monthly for breakfast. As an Army Veteran, George served our country from 1973-1977 and was stationed in Germany. He met the Mother of his children, Rosie, in 1978 and they were married in 1979. Married for 16 years, they had two children, and three grandchildren. George’s Son was his “Pride”, his Daughter was his “Joy”, and his three Granddaughters were the “Core of His Heart”. Family meant everything to George, everyone who knew him, knew how much he loved his family.

George worked for the City of Hollister for 35 years. His White City Truck with the American Flag waving behind him, was a familiar site around town. Everyone knew George’s friendly wave, warm smile and his kind gestures, which meant so much too so many. From digging trenches in the rain, to working on the weekends and holidays, George was a very hardworking man. He’d often go out of his way, above and beyond, because that’s simply what he did and who he was.

Loving the freedom while riding in the wind, George loved to ride his Harley Davidson Motorcycle. To clear his thoughts and put his soul at ease, George found peace while riding. He traveled as far as Yosemite, Laughlin, Sturgis and Southern California to name a few. George rode for over 40 years, he proudly supported biker runs and events that contributed to the community such as Holiday Toy Drives, Benefit Runs, and Honoring Our Military Veterans. There was an unspoken solace George would absorb after taking long rides on his Road King, because he was a “Real Biker” through and through.

A “die hard” Oakland Raiders’ fan, George bled Silver and Black. Passing on the Raider gene he inherited, both of George’s kids are Raiders and they never forget to represent who they are and where they come from! In addition to the Raiders, he was a lifelong fan of the Golden State Warriors. Tailgating with George was a memory you’d never forget. The Shenanigans that went on before, during, and after the game, could only leave you questioning when you’d have the opportunity to tailgate with him again?

George is the epitome of what it means to be a “Family Man”. His love and loyalty to those he considered his family was of the utmost importance. George never missed his weekly visit to see his parents on Tuesday’s after work. His commitment to their care and well being was a testament of the love and respect he held for them. Active in his kids’ upbringing and childhood sports, George would videotape many of his son’s football games, whether it was early, late, rain, or shine. He’d take his daughter to Cheerleading competitions, even though he was the only Dad helping out. Never failing to extend himself to his sisters, brother, nephews, nieces, uncles, aunts, cousins, whenever they needed him and without hesitation. George could see the sun rise and set through the eyes of his three Granddaughters. He believed in each one of their dreams and forever contributed to their lives by taking the time to get to know their individual personalities.

George will forever be missed and his legacy, never forgotten!

George is survived by his children Adrian (Lorena) Villegas and Vanessa (Andrew) Marentis, and his three precious granddaughters, Kiana, Natalie & Elliana. He also leaves behind his parents, Rafael and Angela Villegas, siblings, Veronica (Nelo) Romero, Elsie (David) Marshall, Eddie Villegas and Ivy Villegas. His Godson, Anton Borges, nephews, Joel and Nello Romero, Jeffrey Villegas and nieces Amanda Navarro and Layla Borges. Along with uncles, aunts, cousins, family through marriage, and many distant relatives near and far, George’s presence will be greatly missed.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, January 17th from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with the recitation of the Rosary at 7:00 p.m.

On Thursday, family and friends will meet at Sacred Heart Church at 1:00 p.m. for a Mass of the Resurrection. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery.

A reception will be held at San Juan Bautista VFW Hall after the interment at Calvary Cemetery